Across Miami, a handful of standout restaurants treat the room as seriously as the plate, each bringing its own point of view on art, architecture and interior design to the way people dine.
Global Modern
Lush greenery, volcanic stone, dark tropical woods and woven textures fill Amazónico Miami, the local outpost of an internationally recognized restaurant and nightlife concept. Acclaimed designer Lázaro Rosa-Violán draws on Latin American modernism, with nods to Oscar Niemeyer and Lina Bo Bardi. The open kitchen turns cooking into theater, while a central stage fills the room with live jazz, bossa nova and Cuban rhythms; 800 Brickell Ave.; AmazonicoRestaurant.com.
Marble Garden
Retro glamour sets the tone at Le Jardinier Miami, the Michelin-starred restaurant from Chef Alain Verzeroli and The Bastion Collection. French architect Pierre-Yves Rochon outfitted the space with custom black-and-white marble walls and floors, marble tables, metal chairs, eye-catching light fixtures and a vertical garden. Tall windows let daylight stream in, and circular accent lights frame the 17-seat black marble bar against glass shelving. Out on the plant-filled patio, the garden theme carries into a verdant tropical retreat that reflects the restaurant’s relaxed elegance in an urban oasis; 151 NE 41st St., Ste. 135; LeJardinier-Miami.com.
Timeless Appeal
Built in 1931 by architect Martin L. Hampton and inspired by the Priory of Saint-Julien in Douy, France, the historically protected French-style manor home to Chateau ZZ’s ranks among the world’s most visually striking restaurants. An in-house team from Major Food Group joined forces with Ken Fulk to restore the estate’s former splendor and reshape it into an immersive hospitality destination. Indoor and outdoor dining spaces, a dramatic glass-enclosed solarium, a vibrant bar and lounge, and lush gardens fill the property. The design keeps the architectural character and old-world sophistication of the historic residence, then adds glamour, color and theatricality; 1500 Brickell Ave.; ChateauZZs.com.
Perfect Balance
High above the city, Seia is a contemporary Italian restaurant designed by Laurence Macadam of Zervudachi, Roberts & Macadam London. Layered materials and artisanal Italian craftsmanship set modernity against the warmth and texture of the Miami landscape. An extensive art collection joins the interiors, and an expansive 180-degree terrace looks out over the skyline and Biscayne Bay; 830 Brickell Plaza; SeiaMiami.com.
